The action-adventure series, based on the popular Japanese game franchise from SEGA, streams worldwide October 25.
Prime Video is set to release Like a Dragon: Yakuza, a live-action Amazon Original adaptation of SEGA’s global hit game franchise, Yakuza: Like a Dragon, this coming October 25. Directed by Masaharu Take (100 Yen Love) and Takimoto Kengo (Kamen Teacher), the series stars Ryoma Takeuchi as Kazuma Kiryu.
“We are thrilled and extremely excited to announce the Amazon Original action-drama Like a Dragon: Yakuza, based on the popular Japanese game series,” said James Farrell, Head of International Originals, Amazon MGM Studios. “The unfettered appeal for Japanese content from within Japan and other parts of the world has been growing exponentially. While Prime Video Japan continues to offer a variety of content across genres, adapting an internationally popular game franchise that has such deep resonance and layered characters presents a unique charm and makes for an extremely compelling watch.”
Released in 2005, the Yakuza game series depicts the lives of fierce yet passionate gangsters living in Kamurochō, a fictional district modeled after the violent Shinjuku ward’s Kabukichō. Set in both 1995 and 2025, the series will follow the life, childhood friends, and repercussions of the decisions of Kazuma Kiryu, a fearsome and peerless Yakuza warrior with a strong sense of justice, duty, and humanity.
Speaking of his upcoming role, Takeuchi said, “I am truly honored to be given the opportunity to play the Kazuma Kiryu, a beloved character and the game series. I strongly felt that I was willing to put my life on the line. Audience will enjoy the show's human drama and conflict that unfolds around Kazuma Kiryu. Moreover, please take a look Kiryu's intense fighting scenes with the Dragon tattoo on his back.”
“I have poured out my heart, soul, and the experience that I have garnered over 35 years into Like a Dragon: Yakuza,” said director Take. “The unbridled passion, talent, and countless hours of efforts from the entire team have helped bring this spectacular story to life in the form of a riveting series that will be launched this year, the year of the dragon. Please look forward to Kazuma Kiryu, played by Ryoma Takeuchi.”
"Since the day I first put pen to paper on the original ‘Yakuza’ script, I've never once thought about revisiting any of my work on the series, added Masayoshi Yokoyama, Head of Ryugagotoku Studio and executive producer. “It's because I understand all too well the challenges and hardships that come with remaking a finished title. However, if I were ever sent to the past through some kind of cosmic joke, this is the experience I'd want to create. If I had to go through the wringer anyhow, I'd want to make the most engaging versions of Kamurochō and Kazuma Kiryu I could —and this show has it all. There is no question that Prime Video’s Like a Dragon: Yakuza will become another landmark release for the Like a Dragon series. While the games let you experience their world through the subjective lens, this adaptation will be the ultimately objective way to enjoy the show.”
Sean Crouch and Nakamura Yugo penned the screenplay and story. Erik Barmack, Roberto Grande, and Joshua Long executive produce. Production is by The Fool.
Like a Dragon: Yakuza begins streaming on Prime Video on October 25.
Source: Prime Video
Journalist, antique shop owner, aspiring gemologist—Laurén brings a diverse perspective to animation, where every frame reflects her varied passions.
